New funding sources eyed for heat efficiency

A new charge on heating fuels is possible

A Vermont House committee is eyeing new funding for energy initiatives that had appeared doomed for lack of money just weeks ago.

Lawmakers have been trying to come up with money to pay for stepped up weatherization of homes, expanded state support for low-income heating assistance and subsidies for the renewable energy industry.

Gov. Peter Shumlin wanted to use about $17 million raised from a new tax on charitable betting tickets known as break-open tickets. But lawmakers say there are big doubts the tax would raise anywhere near that much, and that they don't want to hurt the charitable efforts ticket sales pay for.

Now under consideration: a new energy efficiency charge on heating fuels, or shifting sales tax revenues on fuels sold to businesses to a dedicated energy fund.

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